'Women's Hall of Fame Luncheon' to honor six Broward County women

On March 27 the Broward County Women's History Coalition will be celebrating its 20th anniversary at the "Women's Hall of Fame Luncheon." In recognition of the City of Fort Lauderdale's 100th birthday, and as one of the 100 birthday celebration events, the luncheon is being held at the historic Riverside Hotel in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

The event begins at noon with the induction of the 2011 nominees immediately following. This year's guest speaker will be Helen Landers, Broward County historian, member of the Women's Hall of Fame, and Broward County resident for more than 50 years.

The women being honored this year for their contributions to "Women Empowering Women" include the following:

Dr. Kamala Anandam: Among her many accomplishments, as a member of the American Association of University Women she was responsible for the introduction of the celebration of International Women's Day at Florida Atlantic University.

Margaret Haynie Birch: Birch has mentored young expectant mothers during their pregnancies and following delivery to ensure that they were equipped to take on the often-daunting task of motherhood. Through the Shots for Tots program, Birch encouraged immunizations, providing assistance to mothers without health insurance on methods of acquiring immunizations at no or reduced cost.

Linda Cedrone Cox (posthumous): Cox helped found the Broward County Chapter of the National Organization of Women. She was instrumental in breaking down stereotypes that all too often plagued women during the early 70s. Cox was one of three women elected to the State Legislature from Broward County during that era. She served more than 24 years as a legislator and lobbyist, ensuring a Broward County spotlight on women's issues statewide.

Caryl Hattan: Hattan has been a member of the Local, State and National Women's Political Caucus since its inception more 30 years ago. She has worked to identify women to run for elected office, provided training for women candidates, and volunteered on many women's campaigns. She is active in her community and was elected as a member of the Davie City Council.

Juliette Love: Love has been an untiring advocate for HIV/AIDS issues especially as they impact women and minorities. She has served on the Broward HIV/AIDS Community Planning Partnership since 1997. For more than 14 years, Love has been in positions of leadership with the Fort Lauderdale Chapter of the American Association of University Women.

Ann Mody Lewis: Lewis is the founder and CEO of Women's Journey, a community program that helps women to identify the silent discriminations that limit their lives and invade their personal identity. The program offers information, insight and connection to all women. Ann continues her own journey through her writings, seminars and a website. Tickest are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. For reservations or additional information, contact Patti Lynn at 954-722-8805 or e-mail pattilynn7177@bellsouth.net. •